Bologna Tourist Attractions and Sightseeing

(Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Italy)

The most appealing attractions of Bologna are generally of a historical nature and tourists will discover that this city is rich in character. Joining a guided tour of the city is a great way to learn more about its most popular tourist attractions, and walking tours are generally led by experienced local guides, fluent in English.

Particularly noteworthy is the Piazza Maggiore, which is known for its vibrancy and charm. Created at the turn of the 13th century, the Piazza Maggiore is close to a large selection of eateries. Worth looking out for in this part of Bologna is the quite breathtaking and innovative Fountain of Neptune (Fontana di Nettuno) and its highly detailed bronze statues, while further attractions reside within the city's very lively University Quarter.

Bus and Walking Tours

Guided bus tours and walking tours are available in Bologna, which is a great way to see some of the city's most interesting attractions, landmarks and beautiful surroundings. The tours provide a real insight into the Emilian history of the region.

Piazza Maggiore

The Piazza Maggiore is a huge pedestrian square in the centre of the oldest part of the city. Surrounded by many of Bologna's Renaissance and medieval buildings and landmarks, the Piazza Maggiore is situated next to the Piazza del Nattuno. Nearby are many cafés, bars, musicians and street performers, creating an exciting and friendly atmosphere is this busy square.

Fontana di Nettuno (Fountain of Neptune)

Address: Piazza del Nattuno, Bologna, Italy
Connecting the Piazza del Nettuno with the Piazza Maggiore, this street contains the large and famous Fontana del Nettuno, a fountain that was built in 1566 by Tomaso Laureti of Palermo and later embellished by Giambologna. With a group of angels and fish, it features an enormous statue of Neptune standing at the top of the fountain. This slightly outrageous and very splendid fountain provides a useful meeting point in the Piazza del Nattuno.

University Quarter

Address: Via Zamboni, Bologna, Italy
In the heart of the more modern Bologna, the popular University Quarter is full of bars and cafés. This is a thriving district and is to the north-east of the two towers, along the Via Zamboni. The enormous and impressive University of Bologna is actually Europe's oldest university and was founded over 900 years ago. The university is an international centre for academic studies and attracts many students from all over the world.